John G. Diefenbaker, University Chancellor, presenting an Honourary Degree making presentation of an honourary Doctor of Laws degree to Dr. G.J. Wherrett at fall Convocation held at Centennial Auditorium.

Bio/Historical Note: Dr. George Jasper Wherrett was born at Shoal Lake, Manitoba. He obtained his MD from the University of Manitoba in 1924. From 1928-1930 he did post-graduate studies in London, England, obtaining his membership in the Royal College of Physicians, London, at the end of that time. In 1946 Dr. Wherrett became a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, Canada in Internal Medicine (sub-specialty Tuberculosis). Prior to his London training, he early demonstrated his interest in tuberculosis, by accepting a position as Staff Physician, Fort Qu’Appelle Sanatorium, Fort San, working in this capacity from 1924-1925. In 1925 Dr. Wherrett accepted the positions of Tuberculosis Officer, Department of Health, New Brunswick in charge of Provincial TB clinics, and as Staff Physician at the TB Hospital in St. John. Following his London training, he carried forward his basic clinical interest, and acted as Assistant Superintendent, once again at the Fort Qu’Appelle Sanatorium, from 1930-1933. In 1933, Dr. Wherrett became Executive Secretary of the Canadian Tuberculosis Association, which post he continued until 1962. With the same organization, he became Director of Research and Special Projects until 1964. Since 1964, he has been Tuberculosis Consultant, Medical Services, Department of Health and Welfare, Ottawa. Wherrett wrote in 1977 the book The Miracle of the Empty Beds: A History of Tuberculosis in Canada. Dr. Wherrett died in 1981.